Examination of the relationship between performance testing and psychological measures before and after a 12-week strength and conditioning program was the study’s purpose. Female NCAA Division-III softball athletes completed pre- and post-testing held 12 weeks apart. On day 1, athletes completed informed consent, 3 psychological measures (Profile of Mood States [POMS], Physical Self Perception Profile [PSPP], and Athlete’s Self Perception of Physical Abilities [ASPPA]), and 2 strength tests (1 repetition maximum [1RM] bench, 1RM back squat). Day 2 consisted of the 30-yd sprint, pro agility run (PRO), vertical jump (VJ), and standing long jump (SLJ). All sports improved in 1RM bench and squat and reported increases in perceived Physical Strength on the PSPP. The POMS scores indicated that the athletes were not overtrained or experiencing staleness. A series of correlations showed relationships between physical and psychological measures. Specifically, Physical Strength was correlated with 1RM upper-body and lower-body strength. The PSPP Physical Strength was correlated with ASPPA ratings of upper-body and lower-body strength. The PSPP Sport Competence correlated with ASPPA ratings of power and PRO. The study’s results highlight the benefits of strength and conditioning. Furthermore, these results demonstrate how physical changes are related to athletes’ physical self-perceptions and self-assessment of ability within their teams.

The study goes to show that a strength and conditioning program helps in an athlete’s over-all performance. A good program does not only help on increasing one’s strength but also prepares her mentally. Athlete’s confidence and self-perception is addressed through the conditioning program as well.

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